Born Fred Brathwaite to Jazz loving parents in the Bed Stuy section of Brooklyn N.Y., Fab Five Freddy’s introduction to pop culture came courtesy of a name check on the pop group Blondie’s 1980’s hit, “Rapture”. “Fab 5 Freedy told me everybody’s fly”. That line was Fab’s calling card and introduction to the world of pop culture. He initially exploded on the scene in the late 70’s as one of the first Graffiti artists to exhibit his paintings internationally. Fab was key in getting the art-world to realize NY graffiti was spawning a movement that would eventually pulsate globally, and give birth to street art. Like many creative figures from the NY scene in the 80’s, Fab would explore other modes of creative expression. At the seminal Times Square Art show, he linked up with budding filmmaker Charlie Ahearn and came up with the idea that eventually became the cult classic and first film on Hip-hop culture, “Wild Style”, which he also produced, stars in and composed all the original music for. After numerous solo exhibits, Fab wanted to reach a broader audience so he decided to direct music videos. His first assignment was the song “My Philosophy” for KRS-ONE. Fab would go on to direct numerous videos and commercials for artists like, Queen Latifah, Nas, Snoop Dogg, and companies like Pepsi. Shortly after settling in behind the camera in the late 80’S, he was asked to host a program called YO! MTV Raps, which immediately became the highest rated show on the channel and blasted Hip-Hop culture into the living rooms of mainstream America and millions in countries around the world. Today Fab is focusing on making visual art, exhibiting his work, and was featured in the Los Angeles Museum Of Contemporary Art, “Art In The Streets”; the block buster exhibit that was a historical survey on graffiti and street art. Show some love to Fab 5 Freddy, a true pioneer, who celebrates his Born Day today! Updated below with a throwback video with 2Pac.
